38 



certain. Much remains to be done. We are faced with a dilemma. The types of changes we 

 are working toward require time. At the same time, we are conscious that time is limited 

 and that we cannot take forever. 



What I can tell you for certain is that the process, however slow it may seem, does 

 pay off. And that is why it is so important to stay the course — to remain engaged with 

 Africa as it makes the transition to a more environmentally sustainable and productive future. 



One final point, Madam Chair. The environment cannot be divorced from population 

 growth and migration, from poverty or the absence of governments that are democratically 

 chosen and accountable, from those things that are fundamental to human well-being, such as 

 access to health services and educational opportunities. While it is tempting to think that we 

 can deal with each of these problems in isolation, they are in fact interrelated. What is 

 ultimately required of all of us is a commitment to broad-based sustainable development, the 

 type of approach we have been pursuing under the Development Fund for Africa and one 

 which we believe should continue to drive our activities in the future. 



Thank you. 



